Urgent Care for Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)
Facial pressure, congestion, and discolored mucus that won't quit. Urgent care can determine if you need antibiotics or just symptom management.
Find Urgent Care Near You$100-$200
At urgent care. ER treatment for the same condition typically costs 5-15× more.
Common Symptoms
- Facial pressure or pain (forehead, cheeks, around eyes)
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Postnasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell
- Cough (often worse at night)
- Mild fever
- Tooth pain (upper teeth)
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days
How Urgent Care Treats Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)
- Examine sinuses, ears, and throat to confirm diagnosis
- Prescribe antibiotics if bacterial (typically amoxicillin or augmentin)
- Prescribe a steroid nasal spray to reduce inflammation
- Recommend over-the-counter decongestants and saline rinses
- Refer to ENT if you have recurrent sinus infections
What to Expect at Your Visit
A sinus infection visit is typically 30 minutes. The provider examines your sinuses, checks for signs of bacterial vs. viral infection, and may prescribe antibiotics. Many sinus infections are viral and resolve in 7-10 days with symptom management. Bacterial sinusitis is more likely if symptoms last more than 10 days, get worse after initial improvement, or include a high fever. Cost: $100-$200.
- Severe headache with stiff neck and high fever
- Vision changes or swelling around the eyes
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Symptoms suggesting the infection has spread (severe forehead swelling, double vision)
Frequently Asked
How can I tell if my sinus infection is bacterial or viral?
It's hard to tell on your own. Generally, viral sinus infections improve within 7-10 days. If symptoms last longer than 10 days, get worse after initially improving, or include a fever above 102°F, it's more likely bacterial and may benefit from antibiotics.
Should I take antibiotics for every sinus infection?
No — most sinus infections are viral and antibiotics won't help. Overuse of antibiotics also contributes to resistance. Your urgent care provider will weigh the symptom pattern before prescribing.
Urgent Care Clinics That Can Help
0 mi · Miami, FL
0 mi · Miami, FL
0 mi · Orlando, FL
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Always call 911 for emergencies and consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical decisions.